At UniServices, we specialise in helping academics and researchers to turn their cutting-edge research into real-world impact by supporting them on their entrepreneurial journeys. We manage the $40M University of 撸撸视频Inventors鈥� Fund that has backed a portfolio of 48 spinouts. We support industry-leading programs like Velocity and Return on Science, and our in-house commercialisation experts are passionate about equipping researchers with the tools, connections, expertise, and funding to transform their ideas into successful businesses that deliver real-world value.
We believe innovation thrives on collaboration and aim to help foster a culture of connection that helps to nurture talent and ideas. Our November event, Exploring Entrepreneurship: Insights from PhD to Startup Success, invited PhD students and researchers to hear from a panel of former PhDs who showcased how the wrap-around support within the University of 撸撸视频innovation ecosystem supports budding entrepreneurs to navigate the transition from academia to startup success.
Lessons in Entrepreneurship
The first-hand experiences of successful entrepreneurs Dr Daniel Xu (CEO and co-founder of ) and Dr Isaac Cleland (CEO and founder of ), who are University of 撸撸视频PhD alumni, allowed attendees to hear insights into their entrepreneurial journeys and the skills that carried them from doctoral research to startup leadership.
Dr Cleland reflected on how his PhD prepared him with problem-solving skills and resilience, while competitions like the Velocity 100K Challenge sparked his entrepreneurial ambitions. Dr Xu emphasised that his PhD taught him how to navigate complex processes - an invaluable skill when building his startup.
Both noted that stepping beyond academia requires a focus on market validation, as engaging with customers and users is essential for business success.
Support at the early stages
The discussion showed how taking advantage of the opportunities for support offered by the University, particularly the Centre of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) and UniServices, were integral to their success 鈥� from expert IP advice to providing startup funding and access to resources like office space and networks. The Velocity and Return on Science programs also helped guide their transitions into entrepreneurship.
Undertaking a PhD requires dedication, focus and important research, critical thinking and problem-solving skills 鈥� bringing this mahi to life can help create opportunities for real-world impact, as well as providing a fulfilling career for researchers once they graduate.
For academics and students who may not see their future in academia or traditional employment, entrepreneurship is a valid and rewarding path. UniServices is one part of the comprehensive support offered at the University of Auckland. We help make connections, collaboration opportunities, feedback, and funding, so researchers can turn their expertise into ventures that make a meaningful difference in the world.